Residents of Kebbe town in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State are reportedly living in fear after suspected bandits demanded a ₦40 million levy from the community and threatened to attack if the money was not paid.
The development was reported on September 3, 2026, amid heightened security concerns in the area.
According to reports, the suspected bandits initially gave residents a five-day ultimatum to raise the money but later extended the deadline to seven days following appeals from community members.
The Sokoto State Police Command confirmed that it was aware of the reported threat.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Ahmed Rufai, said the Anti-Kidnapping Unit was already working on the information and that security agencies were taking steps to address the situation.
The reported demand has heightened anxiety among residents, with fears of possible attacks should the community fail to meet the ultimatum.
The situation has also reportedly triggered the movement of some residents from Kebbe and surrounding communities to safer locations.
The development underscores the continuing security challenges confronting parts of Sokoto State, where rural communities have faced attacks, abductions, livestock rustling and other forms of criminal activity.
Security authorities are expected to intensify efforts to protect residents and prevent further attacks in the affected communities.